Today, Explained Our (machine) gun problem
May 2, 2022
Alain Stephens, an investigative reporter for The Trace, dives deep into the troubling world of auto sears. These devices can easily turn handguns into machine guns for under $20, significantly escalating gun violence. He highlights the challenges law enforcement faces against this underground market and the urgent need for regulatory reforms. The discussion reveals alarming statistics linking auto sears to increased crimes, while also addressing the broader implications of ghost guns and the difficulties in enforcing stricter machine gun regulations.
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Auto Sear Use in Crimes
- Auto sears are appearing in various crimes, from mass shootings to carjackings.
- They're also found in the possession of extremists and those seeking maximum firepower.
Semi-auto vs. Automatic
- Most firearms are semi-automatic, firing one bullet per trigger pull.
- Automatic weapons and conversion devices fire multiple rounds, up to 1200 rounds per minute, with one trigger pull.
History of Automatic Weapon Control
- The National Firearms Act of the 1930s imposed taxes and restrictions on automatic weapons.
- Further legislation in the 1980s outlawed new manufacturing for civilian use, creating a limited legal market.